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Ronda Rousey claims Dana White pushed her to look beyond the UFC ahead of MMA return
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- Ronda Rousey claims Dana White pushed her to look beyond the UFC ahead of MMA return
Photo by Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
Ronda Rousey says Dana White was happy to see her return to fighting, even if it was not with the UFC.
She recently booked her first MMA bout in a decade and says she is giving the UFC some much-needed competition by signing with a different promotion.
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As one of the sport's biggest names, 'Rowdy' has called out several issues with the UFC that fans have long complained about, including fighter pay.
She also spoke about how White reacted when she told him she would not be coming back to the UFC.
Ronda Rousey says Dana White gave his blessing for her return after she told him about Netflix move
Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images
On 16 May, two former UFC champions will step back into competition, with Francis Ngannou joining Most Valuable Promotions' first MMA event.
Despite initially proposing a fight against Gina Carano to the UFC, Rousey has already clarified her reasons for not making a return to the organisation.
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When asked during MVP's press conference if the failed talks left any bad blood, she denied it.
She said: "No, not at all… He [Dana White] was the one that was like, 'I want you to make as much money as possible. Don't stay here and take less for me'. He gave me his blessing to go out and do it on my own.
"If anyone's been his apprentice on how to be a promoter, it's been me."
She added that she let White know about her approach to Netflix because of their longstanding friendship.
Despite being concerned he might be upset, Rousey said White had nothing but positive things to say about her decision.
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"He was like, 'I could never be upset with you. I love you so much. I want you to do great, I want this to be successful,'" 'Rowdy' revealed.
Rousey also pointed out that many of her issues with the UFC stem from White no longer being an owner but rather an employee now.
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